News Release

15 December 2017

Help make sure no one misses outon presents this Christmas!

In 2009 Dennis Stevenson borrowed an empty shop on the Gold Coast, called it Spirit of Christmas, got the community involved and gave away thousands of free presents in the week before Christmas. In 2010, 2011 and 2012 he opened free shops in Brisbane, at Nundah, Clayfield and Norman Park respectively. In 2013, 14 & 15 Spirit of Christmas shops were run by others.

Dennis said, “In Brisbane I found a great shop and visited the Real Estate agent who had it for lease. When I walked in, they asked how they could help. I opened a huge bag of new soft toys, smiled, and said, ‘I need your help to give these away at Christmas.’ They were wonderful in getting agreement from the owner to lend me the shop.”

“In 2017 the Spirit of Christmas shop is in Ocean Shores, NSW.

With very generous free help, Dennis has a website; www.spiritofchristmas1.com so people all over Australia can learn the simple steps he takes to get everything for free, and how communities everywhere can spread the magic of Christmas and help to ensure no children, or adults, go without presents.

“Thank you for your generous heart. It has made our Christmas so much easier. We are extremely grateful.”

“Thank you so much. I have been able to grab some gifts for my family for Christmas which I really would not be able to afford. I have been finding it quite tuff this year in particular, so I really appreciate all your effort and commitment. I have been a single parent for the past 11 years and it really warms my heat to see people like you guys helping others in need. Love, Louise, Caleb and Jacinta.”

“Thank you for your generosity, love and compassion for those less fortunate.”

Dennis asks, “Can you think of a better way to have a Merry Christmas?”